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Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair When traveling with a powered wheelchair, there are a few things to consider. The airport staff and at the airline will ask you about the dimensions of your chair, battery type, and how to use it. Make sure you have all of this information at hand before you head to the airport. Make sure your wheelchair is equipped with “air-safe” batteries that are in compliance with the air travel regulations. What is an airline-approved electric wheelchair? Electric wheelchairs that are approved by airlines are those that can be safely transported and stowed on planes. The FAA will allow them to be used for travel on planes and they can be kept under the plane as checked baggage. Additionally they'll be able to navigate on rough surfaces, such as gravel, deceleration strips bricks, or roads that are muddy. They can also be equipped with a patented drive system that allows them to maneuver in tight spaces or elevators. The airline will assist passengers with their wheelchairs or mobility scooter from the ticketing counter up to the boarding gates. However, it is important to contact them prior to time to ensure that they are aware of your needs and confirm that they can meet those requirements. Some airlines require that you arrive at least an hour prior to the time of departure which is crucial in busy travel times. Southwest Airlines has a compartment in their passenger cabin that can be used for the storage of one mobility device or wheelchair. This space is limited, and it's first come first served. They also require that any extra batteries be inspected in conjunction with the scooter or wheelchair since federal regulations require that they be disconnected from the device unless the chair is equipped with an effective design to prevent unintentional activation. United Airlines requires 48-hour notice prior to bringing an electric scooter, or wheelchair on their flights. They also request that you check-in an hour prior to your flight so that they can ensure the proper handling of your equipment. Additionally, they request to fill out their Mobility Aid Information form to give airport personnel assembly and disassembly instructions and other helpful details about your mobility chair or power scooter. Safety Electric wheelchairs that are approved by airlines are designed to provide an efficient and safe way to travel. These electric chairs can be folded and comply with airline guidelines for battery size handling, stowage, and handling. Contact the Special Assistance department of your preferred airline prior to your trip to discuss their specific guidelines for powered mobility equipment. maneuverable electric wheelchairs can help you plan your travel itinerary and provide you with the most current details regarding battery requirements. They can also provide instructions for assembly and disassembly. Certain airlines will require you to remove the battery from your wheelchair for safety reasons and place it in a carry-on bag. This is done to ensure that the terminals are not exposed and that the battery is safely stowed in an upright position. Depending on the airline you fly with depending on the airline you use, you may be required to label your wheelchair. This should include your name, address, your telephone number, and your wheelchair model. This will allow airline and airport personnel quickly and easily identify the equipment in case it should become lost or mishandled during your trip. You may also look into purchasing slings from the aftermarket such as the CARES harness or ADAPTS sling, which aid you in staying in your wheelchair during transfers with airline and airport personnel. Make sure you arrive at the airport two hours prior to your departure to ensure proper equipment stowage. If you arrive earlier than this, it is even better if possible, especially during busy times of the year or during rush hour. This lets you check-in early and gives the airline representative plenty of time to help you stow your chair. Take a picture of your wheelchair prior to travel. This will serve as proof if your device gets damaged during the flight. This will give you the ability to seek compensation from the airline in case of damages. Consider bringing along a seat cushion to make the flight as comfortable as possible. Seat cushions are particularly important when you travel for more than an hour. They can reduce the pressure on your skin, making it less prone to soreness. Check-In For those traveling with an airline approved electric wheelchair, boarding a plane can be a daunting prospect. However, with proper preparation and adhering to the rules and regulations, flying using your electric chair is attainable. Before booking your flight, speak to an airline representative to learn more about their policies and procedures. They can help you figure out the best way to check-in your chair regardless of whether it's at the counter for tickets or at the gate. In any case, it is recommended that you arrive at least an hour prior to your flight. This gives the airline ample time to inspect your equipment and ensure that it is safely stored to be ready for your trip. Based on the model of power chair you have It could be necessary to disassemble the chair for transport. In this situation it's a good idea to have instructions for assembly and disassembly in the table to aid airline personnel who will handle your chair. It is also a good idea to attach any safety and maintenance information to your chair, such as the owner's manual or warranty information. Also, remove any accessories that are removable and make sure whether all controls function before you depart for the airport. Once you arrive at an airport, your electric chair will be loaded into the cargo area and then stowed. Airlines are not permitted to charge extra fees for the stowing of assistive devices such as power chairs. This is an excellent benefit for people with disabilities, because it can help them save money. Once the plane is in the air at the airport, an airline employee will be capable of transferring you from your powered wheelchair to a wheelchair that is able to fit in the aisle of the aircraft. You will then be able to disembark, and your power wheelchair will be returned to you closest to the plane's door as you can in either the jet bridge or at the gate. The idea of using an electric chair can be intimidating, but with proper planning and adhering to the guidelines, it is possible to experience the joy of exploring new destinations easily. The most important thing to keep in mind is that if you're not comfortable moving around in your chair, you will never be able to enjoy the freedom that traveling provides. Check-Out Airplanes are notoriously packed and can be extremely stressful for those who have mobility issues. If you have mobility scooters or wheelchairs, it can make your experience more enjoyable. However, it's essential to follow the airline's policies regarding taking your chair with you and storing it on the plane. Contact the airline prior to departure to inquire about their policy regarding power chairs and to ask any questions. Many airlines will allow you to bring a motorized chair for your flight, as that you prepare it correctly for travel. Certain airlines might require you to charge the batteries prior to boarding and some will require you to have a doctor's note on file before they will let you fly with your power chair. Some airlines will also require you to remove the battery-powered portion of your wheelchair and place it inside a protective case. When you arrive at the airport, make sure you arrive at least two hours prior to your departure time so that your airline has enough time to prepare your wheelchair for flight. Bring any documentation you may need to the airport, including your manual or any instructions on the assembly or disassembly of your mobility aid. This will speed up the check-in process and help avoid confusion regarding your airline's policies regarding wheelchairs. On arrival at the counter for tickets or gate, make certain to communicate clearly your mobility requirements. Discuss your wheelchair as well as any other accessories you might require for example, sideguards or seat cushions. Ask the airline if they'll be examining your wheelchair for stowage, or whether it will be transported to the aircraft with an adapted cart. If you're moving from your electric wheelchair to the plane, book an direct flight to cut down on the number of times your device is moved between locations. Once your wheelchair has been loaded onto the plane, it will be stored in the cargo compartment with other checked luggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation does not permit airlines to charge you extra to store your wheelchair or scooter, the same way they would with your luggage. If your equipment arrives damaged, be sure to take a photograph prior to leaving the airport and immediately notify the airline.